FREE Publication Adelaidean NEWS FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF ADELAIDE Volume 13 • Number 7 • August 2004

inside this issue Nanosize does matter Meet our new 3 Chancellor

The new art of 5 surveillance

Local link to 10 Saturn probe

Public urged 11 to reach for the stars

Who will be our next 4 Rhodes Scholar?

Start your uni education - before 5 you fi nish school!

Could Australia be powered by 7 hot rocks?

Q & A with Baroness 9 Susan Greenfi eld

What makes Adelaide so good? PhD student Julia Lock 13 Your life is about to change Photo by Randy Larcombe – and you won’t see it coming. Weed control effort is world fi rst 14 New technology promises to make a size – which means she can’t see For example, researchers could use big impact on nearly every aspect of what she’s receiving her PhD for. Julia’s technology to develop drugs What’s it like writing in our lives – from sophisticated “smart” Literally. which are sent into targeted areas of 19 the wasteland? drugs to healthier food – but on the the human body and, when activated tiniest level imaginable. “Nanotechnology can be described as by light, switch “on”. a new approach to miniaturising our Village offers new home The fi eld is nanotechnology: working technologies,” Julia said. story continued on page 4 20 for students with some of the smallest matter “Instead of trying to make known, molecules, to do some Are you interested in studying increasingly smaller versions of amazing things. nanotechnology? current technologies, the idea is The University of Adelaide is at the to work ‘from the bottom up’ and The University of Adelaide is forefront of education and research begin with the smallest components offering a new named degree in in nanotechnology. Life Impact available to us: molecules.” 2005, the Bachelor of Science (Nanoscience & Materials). For her PhD, Chemistry student Julia The type of switch Julia has been Lock conducted groundbreaking working on can be activated by To fi nd out more about this and research, developing a special kind of heat or light, and has enormous other new Science degrees, turn “molecular switch”. implications for many industries, to page 8 – and be sure to attend These switches are very small including those of medicine, Open Day on Sunday, August 15. www.adelaide.edu.au – approximately 0.000000001m in pharmaceuticals and food. McWha’s Words Open days

As you may know, August is the month of across the university and have, I hope, given staff to provide opinions, highlight key issues Open Day. In fact, there are two open days: students and staff greater opportunities facing the university, identify areas where the all-encompassing Open Day at the North for input. we can deliver more benefi ts to staff, and to Terrace Campus (Sunday, August 15), and the provoke actions and outcomes. A strong level of communication is always Roseworthy Campus Information Day (Friday, important, but perhaps even more so in the Privacy will be ensured; an external consulting August 13). environment of change that universities fi nd company will collect the survey results to Both events give us a chance to show themselves in today. As a result, this month our protect privacy and give staff the confi dence prospective students, their families and open lines of communication are about to widen to answer the survey honestly and frankly, but friends what the University of Adelaide is all even further. also to contribute constructive feedback. This about. More importantly, both days are about commitment to wanting honest feedback will A new “Heads Forum” for senior academic communicating with the general public – not be matched by my commitment to personally and administrative staff will be held on Friday, just talking to people, but also listening to what report to staff the actions and outcomes arising August 6 at the National Wine Centre. The they have to say. from the survey. The summary results will also forum will discuss what it means to be a be published for the university community by It is, of course, my belief, that every day should “research-intensive” university. I hope we the end of the year, showing both good and be an open day. also have time to consider the implications for bad news. Australia of a UK-style Research Assessment Since joining the University of Adelaide, I have Exercise whereby research funding would It is important for us to talk as well as to listen, been committed to the principles of effective become increasingly performance-based. A and that is why I encourage the input of all staff communication – not just with the external local version, which DEST is calling a “Quality in this new survey. community but also within the university. What and Accessibility Framework” is presently the I have seen occurring over my time here is subject of high-level evaluation. an improvement in lines of communication within the university. The environmental scan In addition, I have commissioned an online staff workshop, the staff values study, my regular survey, which I hope will enable all of us at the visits to schools, departments and faculties, University of Adelaide to be open and honest and the open forums have all added to my about key issues. To be offered for three weeks JAMES A. McWHA understanding of issues and concerns right starting August 16, this is an opportunity for Vice-Chancellor

Adelaidean

Adelaidean has a readership of more than 31,000 per month -- 13,000 in print and 18,000 online Editor: David Ellis ’ Writers: Ben Osborne, Howard Salkow, Open Day 04 David Ellis Design and Layout: Chris Tonkin Contributors: Natalie De Nadai, Nicole It’s big, it’s colourful, Stones, Joan Soon, Dr John Matthews it’s loud – it’s the Printed by: Lane Print Group Distribution: Lane Print Group University of Adelaide’s Passing Out Distribution Co. Advertising: KRL Media Open Day 2004! Tel: +61 8 8231 5433 Fax: +61 8 8212 1238 Email: [email protected] Held on Sunday August 15, Open Day is your chance to experience Coming Events: the university in full swing – from Please send all coming events to the editor at the address below. There is no charge explosive experiments like those for coming events, but they must be conducted by Dr Lou Rendina last university related. year, to live music performances Deadline for next issue: and food and drink. Tuesday, August 17, 2004 You’ll see fi rst hand why the Room G07 Mitchell Building, South Australia, 5005. university has had such a big impact Tel: +61 8 8303 5174 on this State and the nation, and also Fax: +61 8 8303 4838 get information about which courses Email: [email protected] you can study and where they will www.adelaide.edu.au/pr/publications/ lead for your intended career. Adelaidean/ Material may be reproduced without To fi nd out what’s on and permission but acknowledgement must be given to the Adelaidean. where, visit the website: Registered by Australia Post No www.adelaide.edu.au/openday 565001/00046

Adelaidean | Volume 13 Number 7 August 2004 2 Human rights chief is new Chancellor The President of the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission, The Hon. John von Doussa QC, is the University of Adelaide’s new Chancellor.

Mr von Doussa succeeds Mr Robert serving one of the fi nest universities Champion de Crespigny AC, in Australia. becoming the 14th Chancellor in the “This is a great honour and I am truly university’s 130-year history. He humbled by this appointment,” Mr assumed his new role on July 26. von Doussa said. “The University Council is delighted Mr de Crespigny announced in that Mr Von Doussa has accepted June this year his intention to hand the position,” Deputy Chancellor Mr over the reins after four years as Brian Croser said. Chancellor. “He is highly regarded in the broader Mr Croser praised and thanked Mr community given his current position de Crespigny for his outstanding and he joins an impressive list who contributions. have served in this role.” “We were extremely fortunate to A University of Adelaide graduate, Mr have had Mr de Crespigny as our von Doussa has served for 17 years Chancellor. His outstanding business as a judge, including the Supreme experience, his strong leadership Court of South Australia (1986-1988) and unique position within the and the Federal Court of Australia community have been invaluable over (1988-2002). He is currently a judge the past four years. on a part-time basis to the Supreme Court of Fiji and the Court of Appeal “Mr de Crespigny not only of Vanuatu. strengthened the university’s position in the city and state, but he added a Well known in business circles, he new global dimension. is a past president of the Australian Competition Tribunal and a Judge “In addition, he guided the university in the Industrial Relations Court of through the modernization of its Act, Australia. paved the way for the purchase of the National Wine Centre and the The Adelaide-based Mr von Doussa, creation of the Australian Centre for whose family has been a part of the Plant Functional Genomics at the Adelaide community since 1847, said Waite Campus.” he was looking forward not only to returning to his alma mater, but to Story by Howard Salkow

3 Volume 13 Number 7 August 2004 | Adelaidean Who will be our next Rhodes Scholar?

Applications are now being accepted for Rhodes Scholarships to study at Oxford University in 2005.

The Rhodes Trust offers 11 The Rhodes Scholarships are among postgraduate scholarships in the world’s most prestigious. Australia each year, one in each State They are awarded to students of and fi ve for Australia at large. very high academic achievement, A recent event at the University of who show concern for others Adelaide celebrated the achievements through community work, who of Adelaide’s 96 Rhodes Scholars have leadership qualities and who over the past century. undertake personal development activities, such as sporting or Those who attended the ceremony cultural pursuits. were presented with a gift by Vice-Chancellor Professor James Applicants must be Australian McWha. Each gift was embossed citizens and be under the age of 25 with a number representing where on October 1, 2004. Applications the recipient is placed within the close on September 1. Application university’s rich history of Rhodes forms are available from: Scholarship winners. Hugh McClelland Among those attending were Phil Honorary Secretary Killicoat and Rachel Swift (pictured), Rhodes Scholarship Selection the 95th and 96th University of Committee for South Australia Adelaide students respectively to Hawker Building (Room 127) receive Rhodes Scholarships. Phil Waite Campus, Waite Road won the South Australian Rhodes Urrbrae SA 5064 Scholarship, while Rachel was the winner of an Australia at large For more information phone Hugh scholarship. Both begin their studies McClelland on 8303 6780 or email: Photo by Ben Osborne at Oxford this year. [email protected]

Nanosize does matter continued from page 1 Another potential use could be Having assembled itself, the new protecting certain additives in molecule can now be switched food, which would then increase “on” with a burst of UV light. the food’s storage life. “Switching the new molecule on One of the most important parts causes a change in the shape of of Julia’s research was to make the stilbene molecule – it goes her molecular switches “self- from being relatively straight to assemble”. a bent shape, almost a V-shape,” Julia said. “Obviously, because the molecules are so small, it was impossible for “So instead of fi tting snugly me for to assemble the switches inside its host, now half of it is myself,” she said. hanging outside of one end of one of the cyclodextrins. This is For her molecular switch, Julia important, because the other end had to get a relatively small and of the cyclodextrin is now free straight-shaped molecule known and could be used as a host for a as a stilbene to sit inside a tube- second guest molecule.” shaped molecule known as a cyclodextrin. Two cyclodextrin Having just fi nished her PhD, molecules – joined together by Julia has now started a post- a “linker” molecule – are used to doctoral fellowship at the host one stilbene. University of Edinburgh in Scotland to further her research This is done by using water as into nanotechnology. Julia has a solvent: both the stilbene and also been chosen as one of the the inside of the cyclodextrin are new faces in the University of “water-hating”, so the stilbene Adelaide’s Life Impact campaign. “seeks refuge” or becomes the “guest” inside the “host” of the larger cyclodextrin. Story by Ben Osborne

Adelaidean | Volume 13 Number 7 August 2004 4 The new art of surveillance In the movies, supposedly the best way to avoid detection is to stand still.

But a new surveillance system change and alert the operators of developed at the University of the system that this has occurred.” Adelaide turns that idea on its head. It has taken more than 10 years for Designed for crowded public Professor Brooks and his team, at areas, the system is based around the Cooperative Research Centre “non-motion” detection: identifying for Sensor Signal and Information stationary items amidst the Processing, to develop the system movement of hundreds of people. to commercialisation, as they have made constant refi nements to how Such technology has many it operates and tackled problems applications – for example, that at fi rst glance seemed detecting suspicious packages insignifi cant. placed at venues such as airports or major sporting events, blockages “Our system is able to avoid false in tunnels, or preventing the theft detections that can be generated of valuable paintings or artefacts at by many unexpected factors. For galleries or museums. example, in an indoor area, the shadow cast by a pot plant can One of the developers of the alter simply because illumination system, Professor Mike Brooks through a window changes as a from the University of Adelaide’s result of a cloud passing across the School of Computer Science, said sun,” said key system implementer it has the potential to considerably Dr Danny Gibbins. benefi t the surveillance industry. “It’s also clever enough to deal “For other surveillance systems, with issues like trees swaying in movement is crucial. Human the wind, and perspective – how an operators, and even computers, are object appears bigger or smaller trained to detect motion and try depending on how far away it is and look for something unusual,” from the camera.” Professor Brooks said. The iOmniscient system recently “But humans can miss things won a major international prize – they might get tired, or lose for Best Product in Intelligent concentration just for a split Surveillance, and worldwide sales second, and that could be enough are beginning to fl ow. to miss a vital piece of footage.” The new system, developed in Professor Mike Brooks Story by Ben Osborne cooperation with Australian start-up “Our system works by scanning background, it gathers snapshots company iOmniscient Pty Ltd, uses and re-scanning the ‘background’ of what’s behind them and is able artifi cial intelligence to check video For more information of a scene, say, for example, at an to formulate a view of the entire sequences coming from multiple about Computer Science airport,” Professor Brooks said. scene. cameras. It can automatically courses, visit the University identify any object that has come to “Even though there may be “Then, if something is introduced of Adelaide’s Open Day rest for a pre-determined amount of hundreds or thousands of people into that scene and left there, it – Sunday, August 15. time, say 5 seconds or 2 minutes. continually moving in front of the is quickly able to recognise the

5 Volume 13 Number 7 August 2004 | Adelaidean Start your uni education – before you fi nish school!

Want to get a head start on uni, even though you’re still at school?

A unique scholarship program offered by the University of Adelaide gives secondary students a chance to begin their learning at university while completing Year 12. Called Headstart, the program gives young people the opportunity to experience university life and even earn early credits towards their degree. To be accepted into Headstart, students must have completed at least one Year 12 subject prior to offi cially starting Year 12. This will give them the time and fl exibility in their study schedule to undertake fi rst-year subjects at the Headstart students (from left) Paul Avina, Kassondra Favaro, Katie Keene, Meng Wang and Cassie Ostle University of Adelaide. Photo by Ben Osborne The scholarship pays university tuition fees for up to half a year’s workload, and while Headstart For Kassondra, studying at the University of She is now studying for her Bachelor of participation doesn’t mean automatic entry Adelaide through Headstart has a dual purpose: Commerce at Adelaide, and said her Headstart into their chosen degree, students can count not only is it helping prepare her for life after experience has been invaluable. Headstart study towards their degree if they Year 12, but it is helping her now! get in. “I’m going really well – going to uni full-time “I’m doing Japanese both at university and is a lot different to doing Year 12, but doing Seven students are undertaking the Headstart for Year 12, so it’s obviously benefi cial to be Headstart helps,” she said. program this year: Paul Avina (studying Year exposed to the higher level,” she said. “It’s a 12 at Eynesbury College, and studying Physics Story by Ben Osborne bit daunting doing two workloads for the same and Maths at uni); Kassondra Favaro (St subject, but at the same time, by being immersed Michael’s College, Japanese); Louise Hutchinson in it I fi nd it easier to understand and keep up (Marryatville High School, German); Katie with things.” Keene (Walford, Maths); Matthew Lorenzon To fi nd out more about Headstart, visit: (Brighton Secondary School, English); Cassie Headstart has already proven successful for www.adelaide.edu.au/headstart or Ostle (Scotch College, Economics); and Meng past scholars such as Cadence Hart, who took Wang (doing the IB at Glenunga International Accounting subjects while doing Year 12 at attend Open Day on Sunday, August 15. High School; Biology and History). Woodville High School last year.

Adelaidean | Volume 13 Number 7 August 2004 6 Could Australia be powered by hot rocks?

areas in South Australia we’re looking at increases Interest in hot rocks is being focused on the Flinders Ranges Hot rocks deep beneath of more than double that average value.” Photo by John Tonkin the earth’s surface may But how can we use those rocks to create be the key to a clean, electricity? to a different set of wells, start all over again, and keep moving from one location to the next. Within “There’s really three stages to the whole process: a few years, the previous locations will heat up “green” source of energy 1) discover hot rocks, 2) circulate water through again and be ready for use. for Australia. them, and 3) use that recovered hot water to generate electricity,” he said. There have been several government-sponsored tests in Japan, Germany and the United States, but Geological models are being used to determine That’s the view of University of Adelaide scientists so far no-one has successfully commercialised the exactly where the hottest rocks might be, in much who are working to help tap into this unused hot rock approach to electricity generation. South the same way that science can predict the best and highly valuable resource – one that could Australia is now the world focus for attempts to locations for major mineral deposits, such as potentially revolutionise Australia’s power industry commercially exploit hot rock technology. Olympic Dam. as we know it. “There has been a rush of recent geothermal The most likely place for hot rock exploration “South Australia has uniquely hot rocks. In fact, exploration licence applications in South is in and around the northern Flinders Ranges, this State has some of the hottest rocks in the Australia,” Professor Hillis said. “Petratherm is which is where Petratherm has taken a number world,” said University of Adelaide geoscientist the second company fl oated to investigate this of exploration licences. The company will begin Professor Richard Hillis. opportunity, with Geodynamics having drilled drilling a series of shallow wells – again, the a deep well in the Cooper Basin of the State’s Based in the Australian School of Petroleum, same as drilling for minerals – down to about far north and now commencing drilling of the Professor Hillis is one of several scientists from the 750 metres. recovery well. university working on this project. “At about 750 metres it will start to warm up “It’s a high-risk, high-return venture, but it’s a He is also a non-executive director of the company signifi cantly. You don’t have to go all the way down simple concept and simple concepts are good behind the proposal, Petratherm, which has to know you’re on the right track,” Professor Hillis concepts,” he said. successfully raised $4 million in a fl oat and was said. “We will deepen the most promising of these listed on the Australian Stock Exchange last month. shallow wells to a depth of about 3.5kms to fi nd “One of the big factors in all of this is that we’re the hottest temperatures.” looking for green, non-CO producing, renewable Rocks at hundreds of degrees Celsius can be found 2 energy. That’s philosophically important to us. just a few kilometres beneath the earth’s surface. The second stage requires pumping cold water Large granite bodies found in and around the down the well, sending it through the super-heated “If it’s successful it could be an enormous Flinders Ranges are up to 25 times hotter than rocks under the earth, and then recovering the revolution. There’s enough heat stored in South “normal” granites, and subsurface temperatures are now hot water from another well nearby. The Australia’s hot rocks that you could potentially unusally high in the area. hot water is then used to heat a fl uid that boils at produce all of Australia’s electricity from this low temperatures, which vaporises and drives the source alone. That’s still a long way off, but there “The deeper you go down into the earth, the hotter turbines at a power plant to generate electricity. is a vast amount of energy resource there that we it gets. On average the temperature increases by will try to turn into electricity.” about 30 degrees Celsius per kilometre,” Professor After a while, the hot rocks being used will start to Hillis said, “but because of our hot rocks, in some cool down. But the solution is simple: just relocate Story by David Ellis

7 Volume 13 Number 7 August 2004 | Adelaidean New science degrees to back Australia’s ability

Four new science degrees are being offered at the University of Adelaide in 2005.

The new degrees are aimed at equipping graduates with the knowledge and skills to contribute to key areas of future need, as highlighted by the Federal Government. Among the key areas identifi ed by the government’s “Backing Australia’s Ability” initiative are: an Environmentally Sustainable Australia; Frontier Technologies in Building & Transforming Australian Industries; and Safeguarding Australia. The four new degrees that will support these areas are: • Bachelor of Science (EcoChemistry) • Bachelor of Science (Evolutionary Biology) • Bachelor of Science (Nanoscience and Materials) • Bachelor of Science (Sustainable Environments) “The University of Adelaide’s Faculty of Sciences has a strong research focus, which results in teaching programs informed by cutting-edge knowledge and use of state-of-the-art technology,” said the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Sciences, Professor Peter Rathjen. The environment is an integral part of three of the four new Science degrees “Each of our new degrees has been carefully structured to incorporate the research expertise Bachelor of Science Bachelor of Science in Sciences here at the University, and have been (Nanoscience and Materials) (EcoChemistry) established to respond to the demand for graduates This exciting fi eld will help shape the future of This new degree highlights the importance in these areas. technology in almost all aspects of our lives, and of chemical principles in understanding our “For many years the University of Adelaide has had will revolutionise current manufacturing practices in environment. The program will cover a wide range talented and internationally recognised scientists areas such as the food industry, human and animal of contemporary environmental issues including the in the fi eld of nanoscience, who have delivered health, and communications. greenhouse effect, variations in the ozone layer, the use of pesticides and air, water and soil pollution. courses in Chemistry through our Bachelor of The focus of this degree is the design and Science. In the new degree, Bachelor of Science manipulation of materials at a molecular level. Students will develop an understanding of the ways (Nanoscience and Materials), students will be able Students will develop an understanding of the in which chemists propose to solve environmental to choose a study option that is directly tailored to design requirements for a range of advanced problems, including the development of alternative their interests in this exciting new fi eld. materials such as polymers, catalysts, molecular technologies resulting in more environmentally wires and optical switches and sensors. friendly solutions than those currently available. “Likewise, our other degrees in EcoChemistry, Evolutionary Biology and Sustainable Bachelor of Science Bachelor of Science Environments build on years of excellence in (Sustainable Environments) (Evolutionary Biology) teaching and research, as well as a perceived need for more graduates in these fi elds. Environmental sustainability is at the core of all Evolutionary Biology involves the study of the fossil modern management practices of our national parks record and information contained in living plants “Students who enrol in these degrees will benefi t and reserves, Aboriginal lands, agricultural areas, and animals to determine how they evolved. This from the combination of world-class research and mining regions. The University of Adelaide is knowledge assists in understanding biodiversity and expertise and innovative teaching practices, recognised both nationally and internationally for its planning for its conservation. resulting in high-quality educational outcomes,” research strength in the environmental sciences. Professor Rathjen said. This program, which provides access to South Students will gain an appreciation for the underlying Australian Museum staff and collections, is unique principles of the sustainable use of the environment, in South Australia, and is designed to deliver including an understanding of the social, ethical internationally competitive training. More information about study options in and economic aspects of natural resources and Sciences will be available at the University of management. There are three major areas of study For more information about any of these new degrees in the program: Conservation and Wildlife Ecology; contact the Faculty of Sciences: phone (08) 8303 5673, Adelaide’s Open Day – Sunday, August 15. Land and Water Management; and Deep Earth email: [email protected] Resources. www.sciences.adelaide.edu.au

Adelaidean | Volume 13 Number 7 August 2004 8 Adelaide’s Thinker in Residence

In the last issue of the Adelaidean, we introduced Oxford University-based Baroness Professor Susan Greenfi eld, her science and her contribution to the Adelaide Thinkers in Residence program. In this issue, Howard Salkow speaks with the world- leader in neuroscience to fi nd out more about the person behind the science.

Q: Growing up in London, lives. But I will be happy if did you have childhood in a year’s time, Adelaide is aspirations? acknowledged as the fi rst city or community where science A: It was different to nowadays. had been taken so seriously that Unless you wanted to be a it is plugged into many sectors doctor or a lawyer, there wasn’t where it is not traditionally the pressure to have a career or associated. I will be working on a CV. I don’t think I knew what this as I meet with people from a CV was. We also did not know various sectors. about recessions or infl ation. No, I did not really worry about Q: What drives you? what I was going to do. A: I still feel I am struggling as Q: Were you ambitious? much as was in my 20s to achieve certain things. I don’t A: Not really. I wanted to be a feel that I’ve made it and can sit horse-riding instructor as I back and be complacent. For loved horses. My mother was a example, I want to do research dancer and assumed I would go that combines humanities with on stage, but that disappeared science and I have grant from early. I was an average dancer, an American foundation at and knew I could not make a the moment. I’d like to create profession of it. the fi rst place in England that Q: Of your awards, does the Life actually combined theology Peerage stand out? and philosophy with cognitive sciences and neuroscience. I A: Certainly. But two others would like to make a very stand out. The Legion serious and defi nite contribution d’Honour (2003) from the to alleviating neurodegenerative French Government. I was disorders, which is my main pleased and fl attered to have work, and I would like to be seen been recognised by a foreign as making a serious contribution government. It also came out to the debate on how the brain of the blue. The other is the generates consciousness. Honorary Fellowship of the Photo by Howard Salkow Royal College of Physicians Q: Do you have a role model? (2000), again because of its Queen Nora of Jordan said a demanding series of nine weeks. A: Elizabeth I. She was a august makeup. marvellous thing about her title: But I think the sentiment wonderful, clever, daring “Queen is something I do, not behind it is appropriate. This woman in a man’s world. Q: How do people address you? what I am.” I think that’s very means taking a broad view and A: It depends where I am. But good. I think for me, Baroness standing back from a situation, Q: What’s the other side to I don’t have a hang up about is something that enables me and instead of doing a job, being Susan Greenfi eld? titles. People call me Susan. to do certain things that others someone who can comment A: I love shopping. I’m afraid Generally, I ask them to call might fi nd harder to do, or don’t on the big picture. I think this sounds terribly low level me whatever is appropriate for have that privilege. the Premier is committed to but my most favourite is the culture or the moment. I acting on at least some of the hanging out with friends with Q: How do you defi ne the time certainly don’t like it if someone suggestions that the Thinkers a good bottle of wine in the devoted to thinking? who has never met me calls me make in a process that is evening. I just love it, because by my fi rst name because they’re A: It’s not compartmentalised. continuous and homogenous. a lot of what I have to do in trying it on and they want to The whole scheme (Thinkers in the evening is formal, where Q: What do you hope to achieve look as though they know me. Residence program) sounds as there is a particular agenda or in Adelaide? Baroness is an interesting title if I just go off to the beach. But I’m expected to perform in a to have, although usually you that’s not the case. You only A: I’d like it to be the fi rst place in particular way. I therefore love don’t think about it on a daily have to look at my schedule the world where science or the to be with friends, let the gossip basis. to see it’s an interactive and scientist is central to people’s fl ow and have fun.

9 Volume 13 Number 7 August 2004 | Adelaidean Local link to Saturn probe

At least one person in Adelaide is paying very The reason why this is so important An artist’s impression of the Cassini- is that Titan – Saturn’s largest moon Huygens probe near Saturn close attention to the current, spectacular – is the destination of the Huygens Image by JPL spacecraft mission to Saturn. probe, an “atmospheric robotic laboratory that will plunge into the “We will be refi ning our analyses murky atmosphere of Titan”. of Huygens right up until the last minute.” Miguel Perez Ayucar from Spain is “[My] nerves were impossible to “I am currently working on the attending the International Space control, in fact I had to leave one Working on this aspect of space telecommunications part of the University (ISU) program here in of the lectures to follow online the exploration had long been a dream mission, so it is my job to ensure Adelaide with a scholarship from events happening,” he said. for Miguel. The realisation of all that all the data gathered from the the European Space Agency. He’s his – and the team’s – hard work Connected via email and phone instruments on-board Huygens studying the nine-week course along is getting nearer, with the Huygens to his colleagues in the northern are successfully transmitted back with more than 100 other students probe due to separate from Cassini hemisphere, Miguel was able to stay to Earth. In normal missions, from around Australia and the rest of on Christmas Day. The probe’s entry in touch with the distant mission. the Science Operations team the world. into Titan’s atmosphere is scheduled is responsible for the day-to- “In one of the lectures I made a for January 14, 2005. While attending lectures and working day planning of the scientifi c small status report to the rest of on team projects in Adelaide, observations. However, Huygens “When I was a child, I was fascinated the ISU students, although no data Miguel’s mind is not just thinking is a very special mission, because by the stars, and when I got my had returned yet – it was travelling about space in the classroom – he’s there is only one observation slot, the fi rst telescope, I remember seeing through the solar system from also thinking about the real-life descent into Titan, which lasts only Saturn’s rings, which was incredible,” Cassini. Cassini-Huygens mission to Saturn two and a half hours,” Miguel said. Miguel said. and its moons, of which he’s playing “After knowing that everything had “For the last 18 months, we have “Huygens, the fi rst probe to land on an important part. developed nominally and we were in been refi ning the telecommunications a world in the outer solar system, will orbit around Saturn, I was so excited! Miguel is a 27-year-old engineer so that we can be sure the data will be doing unique observations of the who has been working on the “When [the] fi rst images of Cassini be successfully transmitted. One of moon Titan, and could even fi nd the telecommunications for the Huygens arrived I was astonished by the our problems is the ‘Doppler’ effect basic building blocks of life there. probe, which is the European Space beauty of the rings and the complex (the same effect which causes the For me, that is the most fascinating Agency part of the mission. structure. But I was already thinking sound of a police car siren to change thing about the mission.” [of] the fi rst images that were to as it speeds past). Many things Cassini-Huygens entered Saturn’s The ISU summer session program be taken next day during the fi rst could be done to help us minimise orbit on July 1 and has been sending is being jointly hosted by the three Titan fl y-by. Those observations are the Doppler effect if we had the some incredible images of the planet, South Australian universities – crucial for our team to validate the spacecraft here with us, but since it its rings and moons back to Earth. Adelaide, UniSA and Flinders – until current models of Titan’s atmosphere is already in space, it is very diffi cult August 27. “Where was I when Cassini-Huygens and refi ne some of the mission to make adjustments. All we can entered into Saturn’s orbit? I was in parameters, mainly for the fi erce really do is change the trajectory or www.ssp04adelaide.com Adelaide, Australia!” Miguel said. entry into Titan’s world.” change the software. www.isunet.edu

Adelaidean | Volume 13 Number 7 August 2004 10 Public urged to reach for the stars

Want to meet an astronaut? Well, here’s another chance!

Two astronauts – Dr Reinhold Ewald Other National Science Week from the European Space Agency and events being held at the University Dr Bob Thirsk from the Canadian of Adelaide include the Great Big Space Agency – were recently in town Science Gig 2 (7.30pm Wednesday, giving a free public lecture as part August 11) and the AIP Women of the International Space University in Physics Public Lecture by Dr (ISU) visit to Adelaide. Mahananda Dasgupta (7.30pm Thursday, August 12). Both events Now, during National Science Week are free and open to the public, and in Adelaide (August 9-22), one of both will be held in Union Hall. the world’s most prominent female astronauts will speak about her National Science Week is Australia’s unique career in space. annual celebration of science and innovation. Each year schools, In her nine years with NASA, Dr Sally universities, science organisations, Ride worked in mission control on industry and community groups two shuttle missions, fl ew on the participate in National Science space shuttle Challenger twice, and Week to put fresh ideas in science, headed a study of NASA’s mission engineering and innovation into the options and future. public arena. Dr Ride will give a free public lecture Among the many aims of National titled “Reach For The Stars”. In this Science Week is to help young presentation, Dr Ride will discuss her Australians make connections rise through the NASA program as between the study of science or well as her efforts to overcome the engineering and the jobs and careers image of space fl ight as being a male- available to them. dominated fi eld. More information about National The event will be held in the Science Week events can be found University of Adelaide’s Union Hall at: www.scienceweek.info.au at 6pm on Monday, August 16.

Dr Ride’s public talk is a major The University of Adelaide has a event during National Science wide range of study options in Week in Adelaide, with many other Sciences and Engineering. To events focused on bringing an learn more, visit our Open Day understanding of science to the – Sunday, August 15 NASA astronaut Dr Sally Ride people of South Australia.

Space Uni: here’s your chance to get involved www.ssp04adelaide.com

It’s been a busy time for the staff and students of the International Friday, August 6 with an Australian case study”, “The Space University (ISU) summer session program here in Adelaide role of satellite communications in 7.30pm International Space University – and for the public! the development of rural and remote free public event: Gerald Soffen regions”, and “Lunar missions in the August is no different, with a number of free public events on offer at memorial panel: “Astrobiology: search for framework of current space exploration the University of Adelaide (one of the three host universities of the ISU the origins of life.” program, along with UniSA and Flinders). initiatives for Mars.” Panelists include David Southwood (Director Room MG:08, Maths & Engineering Building, This month, the ISU students embark on their major fi eld trip to of Scientifi c Programs, European Space University of Adelaide, North Terrace Campus. Woomera in South Australia’s far north. There, the students will be Agency). Union Hall, University of Adelaide, launching experiments on board several sounding rockets at the North Terrace Campus. Woomera test range. Thursday, August 26 A lucky handful of delegates from the ISU will also travel to Arkaroola Monday, August 9 9.00am International Space University to see how the outback area is being used as an analogue for Mars. free public event: fi nal presentations of 8.45am International Space University student team projects. Wrapping up the month, the ISU students will present the results of free public event: reviews of student their team projects to the public. This is the last major public event for team projects - “Water cycle studies Venue to be confi rmed. the ISU’s nine-week stay in Adelaide. using space technology and applications www.ssp04adelaide.com

11 Volume 13 Number 7 August 2004 | Adelaidean Space uni: the student perspective

Dr Matthew Tetlow is experiencing space – without leaving Adelaide!

He’s among the handful Australians I was also a founding member of and more than 100 international the Adelaide University student students currently studying as part branch of the American Institute of the International Space University of Aeronautics and Astronautics (ISU) visit to South Australia. and run the Aerospace research group at Adelaide Uni. I now Dr Tetlow is a recent PhD graduate work on trajectory analysis to and is now Research Associate with support the HYSHOT scramjet the University of Adelaide’s School program, so there is some of Mechanical Engineering. He took potential for me to stay in the time out of his studies to speak with aerospace fi eld. the Adelaidean about the “Space Uni experience”. Q: What did you hope to achieve Q: What is the basis for your from attendance at the Space interest in space, and how have Uni and how has that matched you developed that interest? up to your expectations so far? A: I have always been interested in A: I sort of expected it to be a broad aircraft in general, and when I introduction into space in general was given the opportunity to go so I was not expecting it to be to Stuttgart University (Space too specifi c. It has exceeded my Systems Institute) for my Honours expectations as the material is project, I took it as it seemed very interesting and extremely quite interesting. The more I well presented. got into space, the more I liked it. I decided to do a PhD in the Q: Some of the ISU students like to aerospace fi eld as I knew it would concentrate on studies outside interest me. their realm of expertise. Have I was considering doing a you done this, and if so, what project management diploma or Interested in studies in space? The German contact was also have you concentrated on and something like that to broaden The University of Adelaide offers really good as they work on why? my skills base. The ISU has degrees suited to careers in the “serious” space projects, i.e. those therefore been very useful to me space industry, including the that actually fl y. I researched A: Yes, I am in the Business and as I have had a series of courses launch vehicle system design and Management faculty. With a PhD, and workshops in both project Bachelor of Science (Space also developed a new guidance I have plenty of experience in the management and business. Science & Astrophysics) and the system for launch vehicles. I have technical aspects of my job, and I Bachelor of Engineering (Aerospace presented a number of papers have good analytical skills and all Q: Any other comments you wish Engineering), among others. at conferences in the US and the other stuff you pick up from to make? Australia. This is an important a PhD. I don’t, however, have For more information visit the networking tool and I have much experience in the business A: I am very happy with ISU and am University of Adelaide’s Open Day managed to meet some interesting or project management side of glad I took the opportunity – Sunday, August 15. people. things. to attend.

August graduations

More than 850 students will take part in Ceremony Five – 2.30pm, Monday August 2 this month’s graduation ceremonies. Engineering, Mathematics, Economics, Architecture Speaker: The Hon. Greg Crafter, Chair, Alumni Association Held in the stately surrounds of Bonython Hall, the Ceremony Six – 10am, Tuesday August 3 ceremonies are one of the annual highlights on the Sciences (including Agricultural Science), Commerce university calendar. Speaker: Dr Maire Smith, Adelaide Thinker in Residence Four ceremonies will be held across two days, with more than 1200 students graduating in total. Ceremony Seven – 2.30pm, Tuesday August 3 Dentistry, Medicine, Business, Law Ceremony details: Speaker: Mr Ross Adler AO, Chairman, Ceremony Four – 10am, Monday August 2 Amtrade International Humanities and Social Sciences, Music, The university’s last series of graduation Wilto Yerlo, Education ceremonies for 2004 will be held in December. Speaker: Mr Keith Conlon, South Australian For more information about graduations, media personality visit: www.adelaide.edu.au/student/graduations

Adelaidean | Volume 13 Number 7 August 2004 12 What makes Adelaide so good?

Cath Kenneally may have The Weekend Australian. She’s also fi nishing Students interviewed so far have hailed from her PhD in Creative Writing at the University of Colombia, Canada, Germany, India, the UK, lived in Adelaide most of her Adelaide, so you would expect she knows a thing Jordan and Burma. or two about culture and Adelaide. life, but she’s still learning And that’s all just within the fi rst two months! “I’m fi nding that What’s So Good About Adelaide? “Adelaide is a perfect place to live, study, and to about what it has to offer. is something completely different to what I’ve done bring up children. There are great opportunities in the past, and that is because it takes a fairly here, and it’s a much more accommodating place The radio presenter is hosting a new series on uncritical view of what Adelaide is all about,” to live – life is harsher in Sydney and Melbourne, Radio Adelaide that delves into the positive side of she said. where competition is much more fi erce,” living and studying in her home town. “That’s actually very liberating, because I’m Kenneally said. Called What’s So Good About Adelaide?, discovering some amazing things about this city “Having said that, there are many people – myself the program is aimed at learning about the and its people. You begin to appreciate all the included – who think they know what Adelaide is. international students who study at the University initiatives going on in this city – and for a small of Adelaide, what their cultures and customs city, there’s a lot going on. “Now that I’ve been working on this show for a are, and providing potential students with a while, I’m not sure I have a handle on Adelaide “Adelaide is certainly more diverse than I thought better understanding of the city of Adelaide and any more. it was – the international students themselves say Australian culture. they’re surprised at how multicultural we are.” “I’m discovering new things all the time, and it’s “The show has an international audience in mind, delightful to have a program that allows me To give you some idea of the diversity of topics so part of that is aimed at demystifying Australian to do it.” covered in What’s So Good About Adelaide?, the culture. But it’s also about understanding weekly program has so far looked at: cabaret, the the many people and cultures we have here in refugee issue, soil science, coffee, water resource To hear more of What’s So Good About Adelaide, which has proven to be fascinating,” management, Nobel Prize-winner Lord Florey, Adelaide?, tune in on Thursdays at Kenneally said. public art, women in the workforce, the media, midnight Australian Central Standard Kenneally is best known for her work as the comedy, the International Space University, wine Time (GMT +0930) – from anywhere in Arts Producer of Radio Adelaide, as a published marketing and viticulture, Australian indigenous the world on www.radio.adelaide.edu.au author, with a number of poetry collections and communities, Don Dunstan, and gastronomy, or on 101.5FM in Adelaide. a novel to her name, and as a book reviewer for among many others.

A LITERACY JOURNEY IN 20 PROGRAMS 7.30am weekdays in August

SURVIVAL SKILLS FOR THE 21ST CENTURY 10am Sunday 29 August Funded under the ANTA Adult Literacy National Project by the Commonwealth through the Department of Education, Science and Training

13 Volume 13 Number 7 August 2004 | Adelaidean Weed control effort is world fi rst A new approach to tackling a major weed Existing methods of control include frequent herbicide use on emerging plants or the use of problem in our own a toxic chemical, methyl bromide, to fumigate backyard may have contaminated areas. The new method – which sees areas affected by worldwide benefi ts. Branched broomrape treated with an organic compound developed by Dr Matthews and his colleagues – will replace the latter and reduce the South Australia’s weed problem in the Murray reliance on herbicides. Mallee has made headlines and garnered political support both locally and nationally. But the Dr Matthews said developing an alternative to parasitic weed Orobanche ramosa (Branched methyl bromide use was very heartening. broomrape) is hard to control. “We were hopeful that we could replace methyl Broomrape tends to show up wherever host plants bromide with an environmentally safer product. (such as some crops) are found, causing major Our treatment is registered as an organic product problems for farmers and the economy. The and does not require disturbing the landscape, so discovery in South Australia’s Mallee region in I am hopeful we have an acceptable solution,” 1992 hurt many farmers and restricted internal he said. trade and exports. As a result, some farms have Three years of hard work on that solution has been in quarantine for more than a decade. yielded some positive results, with areas of the In 2001, the Grains Research & Development Murray region near Mannum recently treated with Corporation (GRDC) and the CRC Australian Weed Dr Matthews’s new compound. Management funded a research effort to fi nd new Research will continue to monitor the success of ways to tackle the weed and minimise harm to the treatment, but Dr Matthews remains confi dent. the environment. “The solutions to this problem are a world fi rst, Three years later, Dr John Matthews from the the soil treatment and methods of application University of Adelaide’s School of Earth & are unique. We believe this will prove to be a Environmental Sciences, Roseworthy Campus, has signifi cant step forward in the control of the weed,” developed new strategies and methods of control he said. for this very troublesome weed. The weed exists in other parts of the world, “The survival capacity of this weed lies in the seed including areas of southern Europe, and in most reserve,” Dr Matthews said. “It relies on seed cases it is increasing in range and intensity. If numbers and seed longevity for persistence, and the South Australian trials of this new approach A helicopter applies treatment to an otherwise inaccessible our new strategy is directly targeted at destroying are ultimately successful, it will have global area affected by Branched broomrape the seed reserves.” implications. Photo by Dr John Matthews

Coming Events

Wednesday, August 4 Friday, August 6 using space technology and applications more bizarre and amazing science, more 12.10pm Environmental Biology 1.10pm Elder Hall Lunch Hour Concert with an Australian case study”, “The music and more laughs. Great science seminar: “Intrigue in an endangered, Series: solo recital by John Chen, winner role of satellite communications in cabaret for everyone! Union Hall, North sexually deceptive orchid” by Dr Topa of the 2004 Sydney International Piano the development of rural and remote Terrace Campus. For more information Petit (UniSA). Benham Lecture Theatre, Competition. Elder Hall, North Terrace regions”, and “Lunar missions in the phone (03) 9252 6264 or email: North Terrace Campus. Campus. Tickets $5 available at door framework of current space exploration [email protected] from 12.30pm. initiatives for Mars.” Room MG:08, 1pm Cultural Conversations: Maths & Engineering Building, University Thursday, August 12 “Research: The Pivotal Element of Art” 4pm Obstetrics & Gynaecology seminar: of Adelaide, North Terrace Campus. 12.15pm Psychology seminar: “IQ and by Dr Catherine Speck (Coordinator, Art “Emerging themes in the epidemiology 1pm School of Architecture, Landscape sleep” by Dr Kurt Lushington (UniSA). History Program, University of Adelaide of fetal growth and chronic disease” Architecture & Urban Design seminars: Departmental Library, Room 526, Hughes and the Art Gallery of South Australia) and by Dr Michael Davies (Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Medical School). O&G “Some applications of the Multiple-criteria Building, North Terrace Campus. Angela Valamanesh (artist). Ira Raymond Decision Making approach as a design 7.30pm National Science Week free Room, Barr Smith Library, North Seminar Room, N229, 2nd Floor, Medical evaluation tool” by Bruce Beauchamp. public event: AIP Women in Physics Terrace Campus. School North, Frome Road. The Forum, North Terrace Campus. Public Lecture: “Speeding Nuclei: A free exhibition by Angela Valamanesh, 7.30pm International Space University exploring the nucleus and the natural part of the South Australian Living Artists free public event: Gerald Soffen Wednesday, August 11 environment” by Dr Mahananda Festival, is on display until August 27 at memorial panel: “Astrobiology: search 12.10pm Environmental Biology Dasgupta. Union Hall, North Terrace the Barr Smith Library during for the origins of life.” Panelists include seminar: Campus. For more information visit: opening hours. David Southwood (Director of Scientifi c “Western myall (Acacia Programs, European Space Agency). papyrocarpa) and the hydraulic limitation www.physics.adelaide.edu.au/aip-sa/ or Union Hall, University of Adelaide, North hypothesis” by Martin Escoto-Rodrigues email: [email protected] Thursday, August 5 Terrace Campus. (Environmental Biology). Benham Lecture Friday, August 13 12.15pm Psychology seminar: Theatre, North Terrace Campus. “Workplace bullying: Moving forward to Monday, August 9 7.30pm National Science Week free 10am Roseworthy Campus Information a focus on intervention” by Vikki Knott 8.45am International Space University public event: Great Big Science Gig 2. Day: Your career in agriculture and (UniSA). Departmental Library, Room 526, free public event: reviews of student After sell-out shows last year, a brand natural resource management starts Hughes Building, North Terrace Campus. team projects - “Water cycle studies new “Great Big Science Gig” will feature here. Find out more about the Bachelor

Adelaidean | Volume 13 Number 7 August 2004 14 Backstage roles no act for students There’s a lot more to do at Adelaide than just study – ask Jo Nield and Laura Gransbury!

The two engineering students are part of the University of Adelaide Theatre Guild’s forthcoming production of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night. However, you won’t see them delivering soliloquies or treading the boards – they’re part of the essential backstage crew who help make any Guild production possible. Jo already has a Bachelor of Civil Jo Nield (left) and and Environmental Engineering and Laura Gransbury Story and photo is studying for her PhD in Coastal by Ben Osborne Engineering. She has the role of Lighting Operator Laura is in her fi rst year of a Twelfth Night is Shakespeare’s great Sabatini (Creative Writing) contribute for Twelfth Night, which is her combined Chemical and Petroleum comedy of bewitched, bothered and some additional song and dance to second show for the Guild, after Engineering double degree, and bewildered love, set in the magical the show. she had a similar role in Spring joined the Guild after signing up resort of Illyria. Awakening earlier this year. in O Week. Directed by Michael Baldwin, the cast Twelfth Night will be held at “I thought lighting sounded Like Jo, this is Laura’s second show includes David Adams, Chris Asimos, the Little Theatre at 7.30pm interesting, so I gave it a go and I with the Guild as Assistant Costume Wendy Bos, Peter Davies, John Edge, on Saturday August 7, Tuesday have really enjoyed it,” Jo said. Designer, after also beginning with Adoni Fotopoulos, Gary George, August 10-Saturday August 14, Spring Awakening. “In many ways, doing lighting for Maxine Harding, Rod Idle, Tamara and Tuesday August 17-Saturday August 21. Tickets are $20/$15 a stage show is like engineering: Lee, Aldo Longobardi, Keith Manson, “I had been a performer in a lot of and are available from BASS there’s a lot of problem-solving to do, shows when I was at school, but Tim Ross and Petra Schulenberg. on 131 246 or the Theatre Guild and you have to be able to work in now I enjoy being backstage just Students Matt Gilbertson (Music), on (08) 8303 5999. small groups.” as much,” Laura said. Shelley Broadbent (Law) and Jessica

of Science (Animal Science) and other Chamber Orchestra, Jeffrey Crellin, 6pm National Science Week free public Sonia Baldock (violin), Sarah McCarthy science programs. Tour the facilities, Principal Oboe, Melbourne Symphony event: “Reach For The Stars” by Dr Sally (violin), Caleb Wright (viola), Paul including student accommodation. Orchestra. Elder Hall, North Terrace Ride (NASA astronaut). Union Hall, North Zabrowarny (cello). Elder Hall, North Listen to program talks and meet staff Campus. Book at BASS or tickets at the Terrace Campus. Terrace Campus. Tickets $5 available at and students. For more information door: $15 or $10 concession. For more door from 12.30pm. call: (08) 8303 7812 or email: judy. information call (08) 8303 5925. Wednesday, August 18 2pm National Science Week public [email protected] Free entry, all 12.10pm Environmental Biology event: AIP Super Science Quiz, organised welcome. www.adelaide.edu.au/openday/ Monday, August 16 seminar: “What can remote sensing do by AIP-SA for high school students. 1.10pm Elder Hall Lunch Hour Concert 12.30pm Colgate Australian Clinical for vegetation ecology?” by Dr Megan Teams of six students will compete for Series: Elder Conservatorium Cello Dental Research Centre seminar: Lewis (Soil & Land Systems). Benham prizes, certifi cates and the Perpetual Ensemble, led by Janis Laurs, conducted “Students’ Experience in PBL” by Dr Lecture Theatre, North Terrace Campus. Shield. Eclipse Room, Union Building, by Keith Crellin. Rosalind Martin Tracey Winning (Dental School). Board North Terrace Campus. Entry Cost (soprano), Pei-Sian Ng (cello soloist). Elder Room, Colgate Australian Clinical Dental Thursday, August 19 $2/student. Bookings essential, phone Hall, North Terrace Campus. Tickets $5 Research Centre, 2nd Floor, Adelaide 12.15pm Psychology seminar: “The role 0409 648 853. For more information visit: Dental Hospital. available at door from 12.30pm. of clinical psychology in mental health” www.physics.adelaide.edu.au/aip-sa/ 1pm School of Architecture, Landscape by Dr Jonathan Philips (Director, Mental or email: Sunday, August 15 Architecture & Urban Design seminars: [email protected] “A tool for depicting the embodied energy Health Services). Departmental Library, 10am University of Adelaide Open Day: 4pm Obstetrics & Gynaecology of the Adelaide built environment” by Room 526, Hughes Building, North Free entry, all welcome, from 10am- Terrace Campus. seminar:” How the sperm turns on Stephen Pullen. The Forum, North Terrace the egg: intracellular calcium spikes 4pm, North Terrace Campus. For more Campus. transduced into meiotic cell cycle information contact the Student Centre: 7pm History of Science, Ideas & Friday, August 20 resumption” by Dr Keith Jones (Cell and (08) 8303 5208, or 1800 061 459 for Technology Group seminar: “How could 1.10pm Elder Hall Lunch Hour Concert Molecular Biosciences, University of country and interstate callers. Thales of Miletus have predicted the solar Series: an all Bach program with Peter Newcastle). O&G Seminar Room, N229, www.adelaide.edu.au/openday/ eclipse of 585 BC?” by Dr Patricia O’Grady Duggan (oboe and oboe d’amore, 2nd Floor, Medical School North, 6.30pm Memorial Concert for Jiri (Flinders University). Ira Raymond courtesy of Adelaide Symphony Frome Road. Tancibudek (1921-2004): Performers Exhibition Room, Barr Smith Library, North Orchestra), Keith Hempton (bass), include: Australian String Quartet, Alumni Terrace Campus. Anthony Hunt (organ and harpsichord), continued on page 16

15 Volume 13 Number 7 August 2004 | Adelaidean Start uni life - on the web!

New students can now fi nd the daunting experience of starting university a little easier thanks to a website designed “by students for students”.

The website, titled ‘Starting at went into the development of University’, is one of the best the website. ways for prospective and fi rst- “We made the website from scratch year students to understand what – from the original structure and university life is like, by reading some content to getting it online. We of the experiences of those who have looked at other uni sites to get a feel already completed their fi rst year at of what a site like this should include, the University of Adelaide. and we tried to make ours even The site also includes helpful better,” James said. information and links to sites that James said the website project will be useful for new students. was rewarding and hopes that new The development of the site evolved students will fi nd it very helpful. from an idea by the university’s “I can remember that the move Learning and Teaching Development from high school to university was Unit, and was designed by a team challenging for me, as it is for a so that you could see what it really is of students with the assistance of lot of students. You have to learn like from a student’s perspective, and Important information about the unit and the Prospective pretty quick that you are completely you know other people have been student life on campus can Students Offi ce. responsible for your own education through it before.” at uni,” he said. be found at the University James Geddes, who is in his fi nal year For more information, visit: of Adelaide’s Open Day of a combined Law and Arts degree, “Our main aim was to make the www.adelaide.edu.au/starting/ – Sunday, August 15. was one of the students employed on transition to university a bit easier. the project. He said a lot of research We tried to include student stories Story by Natalie De Nadai

Coming Events

continued from page 15

Saturday, August 21 Wednesday, August 25 Terrace Campus. Tickets $5 available at door from 12.30pm. 11am Urrbrae House event: “Against 12.30pm Clinical Nursing seminar: the Grain at Urrbrae”, an exhibition of “Constructing Powerpoint Presentations”, Saturday, August 28 woodcraft presented by Woodgroup SA. by Department of Clinical Nursing Open daily 11am–4pm until September 4. staff. Room 36, Level 3, Eleanor Harrald 8.00pm Elder Evening Concert Ballroom, Urrbrae House, Waite Campus Building, Frome Road. Series: “Music of the Masses.” Elder (enter from Fullarton Road). Admission Conservatorium Chorale, Adelaide free. Enquiries to Peggy Rowe: Thursday, August 26 Voices and Bella Voce (conducted by (08) 8303 7497. Carl Crossin and Christie Anderson) 9.00am International Space University and the Elder Conservatorium Chamber Monday, August 23 free public event: fi nal presentations Orchestra (conducted by Keith Crellin). of student team projects - “Water 1pm School of Architecture, Landscape Britten’s Missa brevis in D for treble cycle studies using space technology Architecture & Urban Design seminars: voices and organ, Haydn’s Missa Sancti and applications with an Australian “Hermeneutics of Ottoman Texts On Johannes de Deo (Little Organ Mass) case study”, “The role of satellite Architecture: Experience And Meaning” and Durufl é’s Requiem. Elder Hall, North communications in the development of by Selen Morkoc. The Forum, North Terrace Campus. Tickets $25adult/ rural and remote regions”, and “Lunar Terrace Campus. $17concession/$10student available missions in the framework of current 8pm Classical Association seminar: from BASS outlets or dial’n’charge on space exploration initiatives for “Orpheus, Theseus, Heracles: shamans 131 246. University of Adelaide staff at Mars.” Venue to be confi rmed. or just plain heroes?” by Ron Newbold concession prices. www.ssp04adelaide.com (Classics). Council Room, 7th fl oor, Wills 12.15pm Psychology seminar: “Petrol Building, North Terrace Campus. Monday, August 30 sniffi ng among indigenous people: 12.30pm Colgate Australian Clinical Implications for intervention” by Dr Jack Tuesday, August 24 Dental Research Centre seminar: White (private practice). Departmental 7.30pm Musicological Society of “Update on Professional Wine Taster’s Library, Room 526, Hughes Building, Australia, SA Chapter seminar and Erosion” by Dr Di Hunt (Dental School). North Terrace Campus. AGM: “E. Harold Davies (Elder Professor Board Room, Colgate Australian Clinical of Music) 1919 1947: A Conservative/ Dental Research Centre, 2nd Floor, Progressive at the Helm” by Doreen Friday, August 27 Adelaide Dental Hospital. Bridges. Room 1107, Level 11, Schulz 1.10pm Elder Hall Lunch Hour 1pm School of Architecture, Landscape Building, North Terrace Campus (use Concert Series: Lance Coburn (winner Architecture & Urban Design seminars: lifts at rear of building, off Scott Theatre of the Tomassoni International Piano Brett Grimm. The Forum, North Terrace foyer). Entry by gold coin donation. Competition in Cologne). Elder Hall, North Campus.

Adelaidean | Volume 13 Number 7 August 2004 16 Joanne’s wine scholarship success

Joanne Brady gave up her career in the IT industry to further her interest in plants. More information about scholarships available to University of Adelaide students can be found at our Open Day – Sunday, August 15.

Joanne has already put part of the scholarship fund to use, attending the Australian Wine Industry Technical Conference in Melbourne late last month. Applications for the Ian Cocks Memorial Wine Research Scholarship for 2004 close on August 30. The value of the scholarship is $5000, of which the student receives $4000, with the remainder going to the discipline of Wine and Horticulture as a contribution to the maintenance costs of the research project. Applications for the Ian Cocks Memorial Trust Tourism Scholarship for 2004 also close on August 31. Now the fourth-year Bachelor of the Bachelor degrees of Agriculture, “Working in the wine industry is The tourism scholarship is valued at Science (Viticulture) student is Science or Wine Marketing. It is something I can see myself doing in $10,000 and is awarded to a full-time also the recipient of the $5000 Ian based on academic achievement, the future – unlike the IT industry,” student enrolled in an undergraduate Cocks Memorial Wine Research technical knowledge and Joanne said. or postgraduate program, with the Scholarship. communication skills. “After I have completed my course, successful applicant chosen on The scholarship – named in honour Born in New Zealand, Joanne had a I would like to get some industry academic achievement. of Ian Cocks (1938-1997), who successful IT career and had worked experience and get a job at a well- contributed greatly to South throughout the United States and established winery.” For more information, visit: Australian tourism, the wine and Australia before deciding to come “Adelaide had such a good reputation www.adelaide.edu.au/scholarships/ commerce industries – is awarded to Adelaide to begin her new life to study here, that’s why I couldn’t Story by Natalie De Nadai to a student enrolled in Honours in in 2001. resist.” and Ben Osborne

Year 12 results pay off for Roseworthy scholar

A fi rst-year University of Adelaide student is poised for a career in the livestock industry with help from an agricultural scholarship.

Dominic Meaney, from Gawler, was awarded the “I was extremely surprised and honoured to Lois Harris Agricultural Bureau Scholarship for receive such a opportunity,” Dominic said. his Year 12 success in 2003. “There is no doubt that the scholarship money will help out with the general expenses of The scholarship is given to a fi rst-year Bachelor uni life.” of Agriculture student at the university based on their academic excellence in Year 12. “I am very thankful to the Advisory Board of Agriculture for donating the money and am The former Trinity College student is now grateful to be at university studying an area studying the degree at the university’s that I have a passion for.” Roseworthy campus, and said he was very happy to be the recipient of this year’s scholarship. The scholarship – which is named after Lois Harris, who was a representative on the Advisory Lois Harris scholar Dominic Meaney Board of Agriculture – encourages high school Photo by Ryan Leaver students to study agriculture at university.

17 Volume 13 Number 7 August 2004 | Adelaidean Masses of music this month

August is a month Elder School of Music Evening Concert of music at the Series University of Music of the Masses, the fourth concert in the series, will be held Adelaide. at 8pm on Saturday, August 28 in Elder Hall. Three beautiful masses make up The highly popular Lunch Hour the program. The fi rst is Benjamin Concert Series returns to Elder Britten’s Missa brevis in D for Hall, with another incredible line-up treble voices and organ performed that just can’t be found anywhere by Bella Voce, conducted by else in Adelaide – especially for Christie Anderson. only $5 a ticket! The second mass in the program is And with a program guaranteed Haydn’s well-known Missa Sancti to lift your spirits, the Evening Johannes de Deo, which was Concert Series also continues this written in honour of the founder of month, featuring three beautiful the Brothers of Charity, and also masses. features the Elder Conservatorium For full program details visit Chamber Orchestra conducted by the website: Keith Crellin. Named The Little www.music.adelaide.edu.au Organ Mass because of its short, beautiful solo in the benedictus Elder Hall Lunch Hour for soprano and organ obligato, Concert Series it features organist Joshua van Konkelenberg who is currently John Chen, winner of the 2004 enrolled in the Honours program Sydney International Piano in Composition at the Elder School Competition, will launch the new of Music. series of Lunch Hour Concerts in Elder Hall with a recital on Friday, The fi nal mass in the program, August 6 at 1.10pm. Durufl é’s Requiem, is performed Other highlights in the lunch- give a combined cello recital on by the Elder Conservatorium At just 18 years of age, the hour series include performances September 10. Chorale and Adelaide Voices Malaysian-born pianist was one by some outstanding former conducted by Carl Crossin, with The Lunch Hour Concerts are of the youngest competitors in organ soloist Anthony Hunt. A students of the Elder School of held at Elder Hall every Friday this prestigious competition. In hauntingly beautiful piece, this is Music. Lance Coburn, winner at 1.10pm, from August 6 to addition to his fi rst prize he was of the Tomassoni International Maurice Durufl é’s best known and awarded fi ve special prizes and November 19. Tickets are $5, Piano Competition, will return to most widely performed work. recording contracts with Naxos available at the door from 12.30pm Australia and give a solo piano Records and ABC Classics. on the day of each concert. Tickets: $25 adult, $17 concession, recital on August 27. Pei-Sian Special subscription passes are $10 student from all BASS outlets John’s performance will feature Ng, Elder Overseas Scholar, also available for $60. For more or dial’n’charge on 131 246. works by Beethoven, Ravel, Gordon and his brother, Pei-Jee Ng, information contact the Concert (University of Adelaide staff at Kerry and Balakirev. also a scholarship holder, will Offi ce on (08) 8303 5925. concession prices.)

Concerts for a cause

A number of other concerts involving A Musical Afternoon with Janis Laurs Memorial Concert for Jiri Tancibudek (1921-2004) the University of Adelaide aim to Jane Wilson is celebrating her 70th Birthday raise funds for – and awareness of and is raising funds for the Soroptimist Project A tribute to one of our greats, this concert aims to – various causes. Independence: Women Survivors of War. raise money for a scholarship in his name. Adelaide Symphony Orchestra cellist Janis Featured artists include the Australian String Justice for Refugees SA Benefi t Concert Laurs will be accompanied by Jane, at St Philip’s Quartet, Alumni Chamber Orchestra and Jeffrey Voice for Refugees, an afternoon of light classical Anglican Church Hall, Broadview, 2.30pm on Crellin (Principal Oboe, Melbourne Symphony song featuring Guila Tiver (mezzo-soprano), Sunday, August 15. Orchestra). Monica Laczofy (piano) and Ladislav Jasek (violin), Donation: $20 adults, $15 concession, or Held in Elder Hall at 6.30pm on Sunday, August will be held at Elder Hall on Sunday, August 8 $40 family (2 adults 2 children). For more 15, tickets are $15 or $10 concession, available at 2.30pm. information call Jane on (08) 8344 7925 or email: from BASS or at the door. For more information Tickets are $15/$12, with bookings at BASS. [email protected] call (08) 8303 5925.

Adelaidean | Volume 13 Number 7 August 2004 18 Alumni News What’s it like writing in the wasteland?

and the internet, we’re not missing out on much, Best-selling author Sean professionally. Williams has already “What I save in rent more than covers the odd trip to Sydney (or even NY) to talk to my editors,” he fulfi lled his dream of said. reaching the stars, so This month, Williams will give a public talk on fantasy landscapes and Adelaide, and why Adelaide he has no real interest in seems to have spawned so many fantasy writers. leaving home for good. The talk, to be given at the Barr Smith Library on Thursday, August 26, is part of the Author and Scholar events series for the Friends of the The Adelaide-based science fi ction and fantasy University of Adelaide Library chapter. author has 16 published novels, including the Williams has a long association with the University Books of the Change and The Resurrected Man, of Adelaide. He began studying economics at and 60 short stories. With collaborator Shane Dix Adelaide but eventually realised it was not for him, he produced the Evergence and Orphans trilogies instead turning to writing. He’s now considering and co-wrote three books in the Star Wars: New studies in creative writing. Friends of the University of Adelaide Library Chapter Jedi Order series. Despite not fi nishing his fi rst degree, Williams A multiple recipient of both the Ditmar & Aurealis Author and Scholar events series said he loved the culture of the university, “and my Awards, Williams has even made the New York “Writing in the Waste Land” – Sean Williams memories of those times are good”. Times best-seller list – qualifying him as a national (New York Times best-selling South Australian and international success. But that won’t tempt “I did a lot of growing up on the university grounds speculative fi ction author) him to move away from Adelaide. (and I don’t mean the obvious: sex and drugs). Date: Thursday, August 26 I made some great friends and learned lots of Time: 6 for 6.30pm “Adelaide is the perfect place to be a writer: it’s lessons. That’s what it’s all about, isn’t it?” Venue: Ira Raymond Exhibition Room cheap; the food and wine are great; and the pace is Barr Smith Library easy,” Williams told the Adelaidean. Williams is currently working on a new fantasy RSVP: by Monday, August 23 series, the Books of the Cataclysm, and to Patricia Hawke “We were the fi rst state with a Writers’ Centre Geodesica, a space opera diptych. phone 8303 4064 or email: (of which Williams has been a past Chair), which [email protected] is still going strong. And with cheap plane fares www.seanwilliams.com.au

Alumni Events

Malaysian Alumni Celebrate 10th Anniversary 20 Year Reunion for Graduates of 1984 More than 200 people attended a dinner last month to celebrate the Join your fellow Alumni and celebrate 20 years as a graduate of one of Australia’s fi nest universities. 10-Year Anniversary of the University of Adelaide Alumni Malaysia Bhd. Date: Saturday, August 14 The anniversary dinner, held at the Royal Selangor Club, Kuala Lumpur, Time: 7pm pre-dinner drinks attracted alumni and friends from around the region. Venue: The Eclipse, Level 4, Union House, North Terrace Campus Attendees included the Deputy High Commissioner of Australia, Cost: $45 per ticket Mr Simon Merrifi eld, the President of the Adelaide University Alumni (includes pre-dinner drinks and hors-d’oeuvres, main meal, dessert, coffee/tea/chocolates Association Singapore, Mr David Goh, distinguished alumnus Colonel and entertainment). Drinks available for purchase throughout the evening (Retired) Dr Richard H Yung and Mrs May Yung from Singapore, RSVP: Alison Wood, phone +61 8 8303 5800, fax +61 8 8303 5808 Mr Geoffrey Sauer and family. or email: [email protected] Dr Harry Medlin, who was the Guest of Honour and key speaker at the event, represented the University of Adelaide in his capacity as the University Alumni Envoy to South East Asia. Dr Medlin refl ected on his Golden Jubilee 2004 involvement with alumni in the region and acknowledged the magnitude We invite graduates from 1954 to attend the commemoration ceremony followed by the luncheon of achievements by alumni from the university. on Friday, October 1. A framed parchment from the university was presented to the Malaysian Chapter to congratulate them on this occasion. A special gift of Commemoration Ceremony University pins was also presented to Mr Lee Chee Meng, President of Time: 10:30am–11:30am the Chapter, from Dr Medlin. Venue: Bonython Hall, North Terrace Campus A commemorative booklet was prepared for the event with messages Note: Guests can be seated in Bonython Hall as early as 9:30am, but no later than 10:15am from the High Commissioner of Australia to Malaysia, the Vice- Chancellor and the Chair of the Alumni Association. Reunion Luncheon It was a very successful event and all who attended had an immensely Time: 12 noon, onwards good time! For more information contact Joan Soon on +61 8 8303 3317 or email: [email protected]

19 Volume 13 Number 7 August 2004 | Adelaidean Village a new home for students The University of Adelaide is setting a new standard for student accommodation.

Work has begun on a 400-bed for university accommodation with student village, which will cater to its emphasis on student well being the needs of local, rural, interstate and community development. and international students. “It will not only be a place to live The fi rst stage is expected to be while at university, but also become completed by July 2005 and the a true home for the students,” latter in February 2006. Professor McWha said. The University of Adelaide Village (or, “Stage One of The Village will be simply, The Village) will be located on delivered in July 2005 and will Grote Street, nestled in the West End consist of 33 townhouses that differ precinct of the city – a short walk in design and size. Many of the Professor McWha said the personal An artist’s impression of some of the from the university’s North Terrace townhouses are four stories with security of The Village residents different accommodation styles available at the Village Campus. decks and rooftop gardens. is one of the university’s highest priorities. In the heart of Adelaide, it is close “The living area for each townhouse to the Adelaide Central Market, the is on a separate fl oor to the “Access into The Village will only be shopping district, the Gouger Street bedrooms ensuring peace and quiet possible with the use of the resident’s More information about student restaurant precinct and a short stroll is always maintained. identifi cation card. Closed circuit accommodation and student TV cameras and an after-hours from the Adelaide parklands. support services can be found at “Stage Two will be completed in onsite security guard will assist us the University of Adelaide’s Open At the turning of the soil ceremony, February 2006 and will contain in maintaining a high standard of the university’s Vice-Chancellor, 18 townhouses plus a six-storey security,” he said. Day – Sunday, August 15. Or visit: Professor James McWha, said The apartment building consisting of 39 www.adelaide.edu.au/openday Village would set the world standard apartments,” he said. Story by Howard Salkow

Adelaidean | Volume 13 Number 7 August 2004 20